This was revealed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. “Odisha’s disaster management model has been lauded all over the world for its highest degree of preparedness, efficient response and zero casualty approach during calamities. On Odisha Disaster Preparedness Day, pledge to further bolster our disaster resilient infrastructure and readiness to protect every precious life,” he said.

As in the past, the state government organised a special event in Bhubaneswar on the occasion to recall the devastating super cyclone that hit the state on this day in 1999. The various steps taken by the state since then to strengthen its ability to deal with disasters were also highlighted at the programme.

Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Sudam Marndi, Chief Secretary P K Jena, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Satyabrat Sahu and others were present at the meeting.

In a video message, the Chief Minister described natural calamities as a major challenge before the state.

Asserting that the state has always been able to successfully deal with disasters, he said the triple-train tragedy that took place at Bahanaga in Balasore district is an example of its preparedness.

The Chief Minister announced that Rs 2,000 crore will be spent to build disaster-resilient infrastructure in the state. Every village will be prepared to tackle different types of disasters.

The Red Cross will be roped in to impart training to at least 10 persons from each village on disaster management, Naveen said, adding that government officers also to undergo training.

The state government plans to impart disaster management training to officials and people’s representatives starting from ward members to the Chief Minister.

Automated weather and rain gauge station will be set up in every panchayat. The World Bank will provide financial assistance for this. Steps are being taken for stationing of at least one team of Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) in each district of the state, the CM said.

Chief Secretary P K Jena said disaster management warriors would emerge out of every household in the state through proper training.